Boronia boosted by more funds

MP Jackson Taylor ,MP Daniela De Martino and the Manager of Knox Infolink, Penny Robinson. (Supplied)

Community groups and projects are being backed by the state government in Boronia, with the suburb set to see a number of improvements after receiving funds delivered through the Boronia Revitalisation Board.

Jackson Taylor MP, State Member for Bayswater and Chair of the Revitalisation Board announced the delivery on 25 September and said he welcomed this additional funding of over $500,000, which looks to deliver a new series of new community-driven projects, aimed at enhancing Boronia’s social, economic, and environmental landscape.

“These further investments from the Allan Labor Government are another step towards a vibrant, active and inclusive Boronia,” he said.

“I’m stoked to have secured millions of dollars of funding to revitalise our CBD to ensure Boronia lives up to the aspirations all locals have for it – to be a thriving and connected community.”

Daniela De Martino MP, Member for Monbulk said she is very proud to be a part of the Allan Labor Government support for Boronia with funding for worthy projects and programs.

“These will make a real difference to residents’ lives,” she said.

The following initiatives represent an investment in Boronia’s future and are designed to foster community connection, boost local accessibility, and provide essential support to residents:

Food-Connect-Support Boronia – Delivered by Knox Infolink, $58,000 has been provided by the State Government for this project which will see significant upgrades to their building and street frontage, which will enhance community awareness of available supports and services, create a more welcoming environment, and pilot an approach for improved access to emergency food assistance outside standard operating hours for the local community.

Green Spine Corridor – This multi-year project, supported by $300,000 from the State Government and delivered by Knox Council, will establish an east-west pedestrian and cycling link and a green spine corridor through the Boronia activity centre. It will connect key destinations, such as Chandler Park, Boronia K-12 College, Boronia Train Station, Boronia Junction, and Tormore Reserve, providing a safe and direct route for all ages and abilities.

Boronia Community Breakfast Program – Stage Four – Run by Knox Infolink and funded with over $80,000 from the State Government, this funding will assist in delivering the program which offers free breakfasts four mornings a week. It provides a supportive space for disadvantaged community members to connect with others, engage in social activities, and access further support services at Knox Infolink and other local services.

Boronia Voices – This project, led by Eastern Community Legal Centre with $49,594 in State Government funding, will connect community members through a shared love of food. Participants will share their favourite recipes and stories, culminating in the creation of a community recipe book, “Tastes of Boronia.”

Pathways to Employment – Supported by $39,820 from the State Government, and run by Swinburne University, this project aims to develop pathways from non-accredited to accredited training for locals in the Boronia community, specifically targeting employment in the care sector.

Community and Economic Development Booklet – Funded with $19,209 from the State Government, and run by Your Library, this initiative will produce booklets for Boronia residents, detailing local service providers and businesses. This project aims to strengthen community connections, support isolated residents, and reduce barriers to accessing services.

The State Government identified Boronia as a priority suburb to revitalise in order to leverage local growth, enhance local economic activity and diversity and provide more local jobs that match the community’s skills.

This recent funding builds on previous rounds of investment through the Revitalisation Board totalling over $5 million to date with plans to upgrade the Boronia Station.

MP Taylor said whether it’s upgrading streetscapes, ensuring people can have a hot brekkie or helping people to get into work – these projects will make a real difference.”

“This significant investment is on top of my commitment to upgrade Boronia Station, and I’m stoked that plans are underway to do just that. It’s all happening in Boronia!,” he said.